2007 L.A. Auto Show: Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro

Looks like: A miniature VW Eos
Defining characteristics: Audi’s bold grille and a new small size
Ridiculous features: There’s nothing too ridiculous here
Chance of being mass-produced: Chances are high that Audi will expand with more small cars

Audi took the L.A. setting seriously to introduce its small convertible concept. After introducing the Metrojet concept last month, this convertible looks to be bigger, but perhaps the two will usher in a new line of small cars to combat BMW’s 1 Series. The concept is a soft-top convertible, practically a rarity in these days of retractable hardtops.

The roadster features a 240-hp, 3.0-liter turbo-diesel six-cylinder engine. Who knows, though — with low-emission diesel engines just starting to enter the U.S. market, this might be an available power plant if the Cross Cabriolet makes it into production.

One other surprise is that it’s not really that small. At 181.8 inches, it’s considerably longer than a Mini Cooper convertible, and even a few inches beyond the VW Eos. The style might be the deciding factor for buyers, though. Check out the photos below to see if they change your mind.

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Comments

Mart

Nov 14, 2007 10:16:31 AM

Looking at the COMPLETELY different styling compared to last month's concept, isn't this more likely to be a preview of the new A3 rather than a derivative of the forthcoming A1 (metro concept). The fact it is bigger than the EOS also points to a Golf platform, which would again indicate A3 underpinnings, especially considering the A1 looks like it'll be pretty much exactly Mini sized.

Dave T.

Nov 14, 2007 10:24:38 AM

good points.

Nov 14, 2007 10:33:51 AM

Actually, upon further investigation this is seemingly a preview for the new Q5 mini-offroader that will be competing with the X3 from next year. Bizarre as that may seem, this will soon be showing itself as a 5 door SUV! Perhaps even at Detroit...

Tom L

Nov 14, 2007 2:45:10 PM

It reminded me of the PT Cruiser from one angle, for some reason...put it in black and that will go away.